Nintendo has issued an official denial after a Japanese lawmaker claimed the gaming giant was lobbying the government against generative AI use. The situation began over the weekend when Satoshi Asano, a member of Japan’s House of Representatives, posted on social media that Nintendo was “avoiding using generative AI to protect its IP” and “engaging in lobbying activities with the government.”

The statement prompted Nintendo to take the unusual step of releasing a public response. “Contrary to recent discussions on the internet, Nintendo has not had any contact with the Japanese government about generative AI,” the company stated. The gaming company added that it will “continue to take necessary actions against infringement of our intellectual property rights,” regardless of whether generative AI is involved.

Contrary to recent discussions on the internet, Nintendo has not had any contact with the Japanese government about generative AI. Whether generative AI is involved or not, we will continue to take necessary actions against infringement of our intellectual property rights.

— 任天堂株式会社（企業広報・IR） (@NintendoCoLtd) October 5, 2025

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Following Nintendo’s denial, Asano withdrew his claim and issued an apology. “I deeply regret my own failure to verify the facts adequately,” he wrote.

Earlier this year, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser discussed the company’s approach to AI technology in an interview with CNBC. He explained that Nintendo evaluates any technology based on whether it can “create a better gameplay experience.”

先日、私が投稿した内容について、誤った情報が記載されていた部分があり、下記の通り訂正をさせていただきました。自らの事実を確認不足を反省しています。関係者の皆様には改めてお詫びを申し上げ、再発防止に努めて参ります。… https://t.co/8aJ8slMUzl

— 浅野さとし🌿衆議院議員🌿国民民主党🌿茨城5区(日立市・高萩市・北茨城市・東海村) (@Asano__Satoshi) October 5, 2025

The use of generative AI has become a contentious topic across creative industries, including video games. Tools like Midjourney have faced criticism from those who believe they replace professional artists and use existing artwork without permission for training purposes.